The Best Climate for Liriope

Liriope (Liriope muscari or Liriope spicata), a perennial, is used as a border, edging or accent plant in the garden or landscape. In some climates it is used as a substitute for turf grass as a ground cover. Also called "monkey grass," Liriope has long, slender, grass-like blades and a clumping growth habit. The foliage color varies, from deep greens to pale lavender or red stripes, among the different species and multiple cultivars. Liriope grows in a variety of climates, but thrives in warm southern and coastal Mediterranean climates.

Liriope Basics

Native to China, liriope is a full-sun plant, although it can handle partial shade in some areas. Depending on the climate, this plant has a slow to moderate growth rate, and flowers in the summer months, through the early fall. Different cultivars produce different flowers, with blue, purple or violet colored blossoms. Some cultivars produce berries that stay on the plant through the winter. Liriope is an easy-to-grow plant that requires regular water and well-draining soil.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Liriope grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 10. Although it can withstand some parts of USDA zone 5, it is not able to live through colder winters in northern parts of this zone. However, the right climate zone for your liriope plant depends on the species and cultivar that you want to grow. USDA zones 8, 9 and 10 are the right climate for growing Liriope spicata "Silver Dragon," as well as Liriope muscari cultivars such as the "Aztec," "Christmas Tree," "Evergreen Giant," "Webster Wideleaf" and the "Royal Purple."

Warm Climates

Warm climates are ideal for liriope. The plant is widely cultivated in the southern United States, because it thrives in warm weather and tolerates humidity. It also does well in temperate, coastal environments. In these climates Liriope remains evergreen throughout the seasons. While liriope requires regular water, particularly hot climates increase the plant’s hydration needs. In warm, arid climates, liriope requires irrigation once a week or more.

Cold Climates

Liriope does not grow as well in colder climates. It must be pruned back during cool weather seasons because of its tendency to decline and look shabby. The best time to prune the plant is during the months of January through March, before new growth begins to emerge. In colder climates, liriope also prefers full sun over partial shade; shaded spots may not be warm enough during the winter months.

Unpredictable Temps and Pruning

Record-setting hot and cold temperatures in various climates have can affect liriope. Above average winter and spring temps lead to early flowering and new growth. Carefully monitor your liriope plant for new growth during these times -- you do not want to prune away new growth tips once they emerge. Pruning liriope after it has begun producing new shoots leads to brown tips during the summer months.

Warm Weather and Infections

While liriope thrives in warm, humid climates, this weather also sets the stage for fungal infections to develop. Liriope is susceptible to fungal pathogens that cause leaf and crown rot. Symptoms of leaf and crown rot include yellowing or browning of the foliage. Some blades may appear wilted and water-soaked. Cooler, fall weather and mild, temperate climates do not provide the right conditions for these fungal pathogens in the soil.